UO Pride: Jill Beth Hannes

Jun 08, 2017
Sheewa Salehi

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To celebrate Pride this month, we’re sharing the stories of young creatives showing their pride and proving that love is love. We’ve partnered with GLSEN to introduce an exclusive collection of graphic tees and hats, as well as Fujifilm to curate a Instax Mini Group Show with all profits donated to GLSEN in support of LGBTQ youth. Here we chat with Jill Beth Hannes- LA based photographer.

Tell us about yourself and your background.

I'm a photographer living in Los Angeles. I shoot mostly film. I love to create haunting and dream-like images.

What does love mean to you?

Love is all that matters and when you find it you'll know it is the most beautiful gift you'll ever receive.

Are there any people in your life who have been particularly inspiring for you?

My husband inspires me daily. His patience and kindness are things that I truly admire. Also my friend in New York, Brooke. Without her example of strength I wouldn't be where I am today.

What's something about yourself that not many people know?

I started taking photographs in elementary school! I grew up in Hawaii and my school was very small. One year the whole school decided to create a book. Some kids wrote stories and some were given cameras. I haven't stopped shooting since.

Why are you proud to be who you are?

It's a struggle to always be proud of myself but I don't give up and I keep at it.

What is one thing that you wish everyone would remind themselves every day?

That they are so important and loved.

Why is it important to love yourself?

So I can be a good mother and my son will grow up to love himself.

What's next for you?

Always creating.

Any advice that you can share that will empower others to be who they are?

Life is too short to be down on yourself.

Lastly, what do you hope for people to take away from your Fujifilm Instax Film series for the upcoming Space 15 Twenty group show?